The "new folks" in Rabbit Hill function more as a single character than as individuals, although the cook with her peculiar friendship with Pewy, and the man with his strong-smelling pipe are somewhat individualized. In general, however, the humans are simply a presence that forces the animal community to confront their own hopes and fears. Within this context, each of the animals expresses its own temperament. Porky shows a stubborn resolve not to move his home; Father Rabbit constantly returns to memories of better times. The "new folks" make a considerate gesture, leaving Porkey's home untouched, but this soon gives way to their mysterious treatment of Little Georgie.

Little Georgie is a pivotal character for he represents hope for the future. He is carefully balanced against Uncle Analdas whose age gives him wisdom, but also an excessive pessimism toward the dangers that accompany any new enterprise. Together...